Small car
- Good for:
- Willemstad, Jan Thiel, east-coast beaches
- Ideal:
- Couples, short stays, budget
© Kamen Florov · Google MapsRenting a Car in Curaçao
You'll need one. Here's everything we know after driving every road on the island.
Do you really need a car?
Yes, for most visitors. The best beaches are 30 to 75 minutes from Willemstad and public transport isn't ideal for tourists. The only exception: if your entire trip is Willemstad or Jan Thiel.
Which vehicle to choose?
SUV / Crossover
- Good for:
- The whole island, Westpunt, Christoffel
- Ideal:
- Families, long stays, explorers
4x4 / Jeep
- Good for:
- Hidden beaches, unpaved trails
- Ideal:
- Adventurers
Book your Curaçao rental car
What to know before you book
Book in advance
High season (Nov-Mar) sells out fast. Book at least 2 weeks ahead.
Roads vary widely
Main roads are excellent. Westpunt and remote beaches can be rough. Some beaches require a short walk from the parking.
GPS and navigation
Google Maps works, but Waze is more accurate on Curaçao. Also download the island offline, signal drops in remote areas.
Roundabouts
Common in Willemstad. Yield to traffic already in the circle, then signal as you exit.
Parking in Willemstad
To visit Punda or Otrobanda, park at the Renaissance Hotel multi-storey garage. Reasonable rate, secured, right downtown.
Drive on the right
Driving is on the RIGHT, same as the Netherlands and France. Speed limits: 60 km/h in town, 80 km/h on open roads.